The first step towards identification of an eating disorder in a child is understanding, advises JACINTA HASTINGS, the chief executive officer of Bodywhys.
Read all you can about eating disorders;
Look for local support groups that can give you more information;
Speak to your family doctor if you have specific medical concerns;
If you know of someone else who has been through this experience, speak to them and ask their advice.
“Understanding the eating disorder means understanding that it is about feelings rather than food,” she says. “Try to keep this focus.”
Bodywhys provides support groups in Dublin, Carlow and Galway; online support groups via its website, bodywhys.ie; e-mail support (alex@bodywhys.ie); and a LoCall national helpline (1890 200 444), text “support” to 53305 for opening hours.